The song "Someone In The Crowd" performed by Mia and her roommates also foreshadows that someone in the crowd of her play will make Mia's dream come true
Victor Flores totally true but i always thought that someone in the crowd referred directly to sebastian, who was the someone she had a chance encounter with that motivated her to make her own show to begin with... my favorite connection to this is when she runs to the movie theater and is literally looking for his face in the crowd 🤯😁
Chazelle has a very similar message in Whiplash, too. Something like how far are you willing to go to pursue your dreams? I absolutely loved La La Land, but the ending is both incredible and it kills me. Very nice analysis, especially liked the split screen part where Mia and Sebastian both aren't able to go to each other.
That's funny I always taught the last scene was Sebastian's dream and not Mia. Because it was seb's actions that was change in the dream: saying no the the band offer, Going to Mia 's show etc. Plus I feel he was the one mostly responsible for them to break up.
The last scene was both their wish/dream, but it's true it relied on Seb's choice. If he was to go with Mia, he never would've made his dream come true.
@@m.webster1261 you're right. She actually has a choice to stay in LA and wait until Sebastian has enough money to open a jazz club but it means she have to bury her dream to be an actress. So yes, she has to say no to Seb.
I'm not sold on the pessimism! I was really taken aback at how little of an effect the final scene had on Mia... and that made me realize that she achieved her dream. Basically the entirety of that sequence was a life the movie show's she already has (and much more). And she just walks away, accepting and proud of her choices. I thought that was such a mature decision you wouldn't expect from a film like this-- that a relationship may enter your life that motivates you to the next step of your dream, but that the relationship doesn't work out as some kind of destiny love BS. I thought that was so realistic.
Senyuno exactly. I never saw the ending as pessimistic. It is full of wonder and shows how even though mia and sebastian are not together now, they will always remember each other in a positive light and still move on with their lives .
@@juliaraele9166 It's a movie that favours careers and independence over love and commitment. It basically says: "It is better to have a great job and an average love/family life instead of a bad job with a great love/family life". It just reflects todays zeitgeist. But it is very well made, i'll admit that.
@@JugglernautNr9 except Mia HAS love in her life, and a family with Greg who is treated like a square through the entire movie. She walked away from him without explanation, I guess because Greg's brother's life of traveling the world wasn't as exciting as the prospect of being with Sebastian for a while. Ultimately they (Seb/Mia) didn't make it work because they didn't work on it.
@@JugglernautNr9 Not really cause Mia seems to be in a very happy relationship. It's just we aren't attached to him cause we just watched Seb and Mia fall in love for 2 hours but everything about Mia's life seems happy. It's not like it comes off like she's faking it or anything. Everything she imagines having with Seb she already has with her husband. There are even reverse mirror images with Mia having a son with Seb and a daughter with her husband. Mia and Seb's relationship was going downhill cause their ambitions were driving them apart so they chose to end things on a good note before they resented each other. Sometimes being so similar to someone is great for a season but in the long run having such similar goals would cause one person to eventually have to compromise & end up resenting the other. They weren't meant to marry someone on their same trajectory. The ending is more realistic than pessimistic imo. It isn't saying you can't have a great job and a great love life, it's saying everything can't be perfect like in the movies. In real life everything has it's season and must eventually pass, even their love for each other. If Mia favored independence over love she wouldn't be a happy wife & mother and we just don't know if Seb found someone else.
Im surprised that you didnt mention the use of colour to set the mood and feelings of the characters, like when theres green they are jealous or when theres blue they are melancholic and regretful.
I think a sub-theme in this movie is irreparability. Decisions have consequences, and there are points of no return in ones life that one cannot alter no matter what. I think that's also what makes the ending so powerful.
This movie also is brilliant at honestly showcasing choice. Sometimes it's easy, sometimes it's hard. Are choices are good or bad. But they are ours. The choices we make are what make us individuals, it's how we know we're alive.
Olivia Petersen Moonlight is boring and is a movie about absolutely nothing. Only reason it got any recognition this awards season is because of the times we're in these days. (#oscarssowhite) remember?
Moonlight is not about nothing. It's a character study film. It's about following a man throughout his life and seeing how the experiences and struggles he endures shape him as a person, and it ends with him finally able to find the emotional catharsis he's always needed, while being able to accept himself for who he is. I'm sorry if you thought it was boring, but the idea that it's about nothing and that it shouldn't have gotten any recognition is completely false. It's a technically excellent film with a great script, great cinematography and great score. Both La La Land and Moonlight are very, very good films and there is no need to bring unnecessarily harsh and biased opinions on the latter into what was clearly a joke comment.
Dominic Decoco 'about nothing' okay, that is completely false. it's a slow moving film, yes, but it's an incredibly intimate and in-depth character study surrounding a topic (black gay men in poor communities) not widely explored in cinema, as well as being beautifully shot and realised.
Jane Doe Only reason it won was because of the times we're in. 2005. Brokeback mountain. Movie about two gay cowboys. Everyone thought it should win... but the TRASH Socal movie (Crash) won instead. I guarantee if the years 2017 and 2005 were switched.. La La Land would have won over Moonlight. And Brokeback mountain would have won over Crash. It's sad. Yes indeed it's sad.
moonlight is the first of its kind whilst engaging on subject material that very few movies dare to touch (that's why the budget was so tiny: $1.5million), it deserves recognition for that. there's nothing wrong with a movie that commented on or reflected society winning an award, after all, many people can relate to the issues moonlight brought up, as i did, and many people also. when both movies, la la land and moonlight, stand as well-made, well-acted, well-shot films in their own right, the oscar voters are left with guaging how much the movie affected them. moonlight happened to edge out over la la land. you can't help that. 'it's sad' - is it though? brokeback mountain won three academy awards, la la land seven. not exactly something to cry about.
I personally took that ending as, the dream was the ideal situation and how nice it would have been but that knowing smile at the end confirms what you said, their relationship got them where they wanted to go even if it meant that they didn't end up together, they appreciate each other and what they had was important and they are grateful to each other for the time they spent together. On a separate note, i was left in awe of this and i think i audibly said wow when I saw it and an older lady a few seats down from me came in with a "well that was two hours of nonsense." and I wanted to reply "You just dont get it!" xD
The ending was beautiful. That was what made this my favorite romance ever because it’s the only healthy way to view your ex-partners. Someone that was exactly what you needed at the time that helped you on your journey to get to your destination. It doesn’t have to end in resentment & hate. I am grateful for all my ex-partners because they kept me going & taught me my strengths, weaknesses, compatibilities, priorities. I have nothing but love for all of them, even the ones that hurt. It all led to who I am today & helped me find the perfect wife I am happily married to today. I wish more people saw relationships this way. It’s great for the heart.
I didn't think the ending was pessimistic. Realistic, absolutely, but not pessimistic. What makes me think this is the very, very last scene. Before she leaves, they lock eyes one final moment, but they smile. There is a quiet thanks shared between them, harkening back to the moment they break up.
Idk how he missed that. That was what made this my favorite romance ever because it’s the only healthy way to view your ex-partners. Someone that was exactly what you needed at the time that helped you on your journey to get to your destination. It doesn’t have to end in resentment & hate. I am grateful for all my ex-partners because they kept me going & taught me my strengths, weaknesses, compatibilities, priorities. I have nothing but love for all of them, even the ones that hurt. It all led to who I am today & helped me find the perfect wife I am happily married to today. I wish more people saw relationships this way. It’s great for the heart.
Fantastic attention to the clothing I hadn't thought of that myself! The use of colour and camera movement in the film is beautiful in this film. So happy to see you cover this one and have an understanding of its major theme: chasing one's dream. Naturally, as a filmmaker myself, I relate heavily to the film as do many of my filmmaking friends. Hope to do a video covering this film soon- perhaps about how the film generated a level of controversy (just look up articles by The Guardian a British newspaper)
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed! I'd love to see that video, I haven't done much research into the story behind the movie (controversy) but I think that a great video objectively looking at it from the perspective of a fan could be awesome!
Yeah, because it bothered me to hear someone attack Damien Chazelle to the point of calling him a misogynist. Totally uncalled for. And also its a film that some say there was too much hype about, so it'd be good to revisit it now with the DVD release and months later to see how it lives up to that. Will do after a third viewing.
Yes La La Land one my favorite films from 2016, if not all time (definitely my top musical joining the sound of music), just love it. Jack mate thanks for making a video on it, always great to watch each new one.
I interpreted the ending as Sebastian giving her a send off through music, almost as a "thank you" gift through his music that they now both understand is meaningful. Also have you seen the movie The Umbrellas of Cherbourg? If you haven't, please watch it soon, it is certainly an amazing film.
What can I say... Awesome as always! Wonderful analysis that goes so much deeper than the surface level (on which this movie also works perfectly). Needless to say: the cinematography (choreography, music, set design.... you name it) are all beyond outstanding. Love the fact that Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling are actually singing live. Hate to say it, but I haven't seen the movie yet, but from what I already watched: the performances are brilliant. Damien Chazelle definitely brings out the very best in his fine cast. I knew that Stone and Gosling are very good, but not THAT good! Brilliant on all levels. Will watch the entire movie ASAP. Thanks again for a very insightful movie dissection!
I loved the ending as it was supposed to break away from most movie tropes of a happily ever after. Damian was confident that the audience would be mature enough to understand the reality of the ending because Seb and Mia both acknowledged their fulfillment of careers, despite the sacrifice of a seemingly great relationship. Someone comes into our lives and encourages us to pursue our aspirations but in some cases it may require a great sacrifice. I thought it was great ending because it was realistic.
It's really tough to compare, they're both great movies and I love both for different reasons, but I don't think one is objectively better than the other. As of now, they're both in my top 5 from 2016.
im late to the party but moonlight had more than one black talking character... la la land had kieth... in a film about jazz... a music genre that originated from black racial struggle for equality.
To add into the idea of their relationship being incomplete, notice how when the musical montage ends in sebs we see Mia and Sebastian theme literally not being complete as the final note is unplayed, further emphasizing the idea of their relationship never being complete and left open to wonder and play in theirs and the audiences head.
Jack, I am blown away by your content. I think La La Land is a truly deep, beautiful, and heart-wrenching film and I think your analysis perfectly captures what makes it so brilliant and thought-provoking. I think the movie itself has been on the tail-end of some completely undeserved backlash. I've seen so many people call it overrated, and while I'm not opposed to contrary opinions, I think most of its critics are either missing the point or getting caught up in the "racial" Oscars debate and letting it influence their opinion. What makes the film so special to me is just how well it contrasts reality and fantasy. The struggles of their relationship is for me what really sets the film apart, and I love how it explores the concept of chasing your dream vs maintaining your reality. As lavish and superficial as the dreams may be, the reality is authentic and hard-hitting. I don't know if it was your narration or the clips from the movie, but jeez, just watching this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you! Keep up the amazing work!
Thank you! That really means a lot and I'm glad you enjoyed! It can be easy to get caught up in critical backlash, but honestly I've been trying to ignore what others say about movies, and just focus on my thoughts!
Luckily I watched this in 2022 so I was not affected by any of the outside influences that surrounded the movie at the time it was released. Many times the hype surrounding the movie makes it feel overrated no matter what. I actually watched this HATING musicals so I had very low expectations even though I knew it had 6 Oscars. And this is now in my top 5 favorite movies of all time. Mainly because of how the movie ended. It represents how I view all my ex-relationships. Not with hate & resentment, but with appreciation & gratitude.
When I first saw this movie I wasn't very impressed I liked it, but I thought it was very overrated. Thank you for making me realize the brilliance of this film!
I literally stumbled on your videos an hour ago, from the Breaking Bad video. Absolutely loving it. I am certainly going to follow you from now. Keep up the good work!
I just saw this pop up on my feed. This is the best analysis I’ve seen of this of this movie so far! I interpreted the end differently. I completely agree with you up to the flashback dream. I don’t think it was juxtaposing harsh reality to dreams, but dreaming what could’ve been once they both finally started living their dream. The movie shows you can’t have everything. The whole movie they were looking forward, then they looked back, and I believe the final shot is them, for the first time in the movie, accepting where they are (them smiling and nodding to each other) and it being a good place. I think even the music in the final shot tells the same story. The music is a melody of all that happened before, but it ends on an off note, left hanging as she walks towards the exit. Then they both look at each other, nod and smile and the music crescendos and ends on the correct, uplifting notes.
Wow. I'm impressed. This was a great look at the film and I learned some things I didn't know, including the significance of the link between Mia being late to the cinema/Sebastian missing the show. Thanks for a great video!
I adore Emma stone anyway but nonetheless this film was both happy sad and darn right melancholy .. I loved the music as well as star...yeah.. I know there was some guy in it somewhere OK.. but it's Emma, OK!! ;)
If they're married the'd end up like Marriage Story (aka the harsh reality) 😂 When I watched Marriage Story, I immediately reminded of La La Land. I feel it's like an alternate ending of La La Land, with almost the same premise (dream/career vs relationship), the difference is one person haven't fullfilled her dream and they're already married.
I am not a fan of musical at all but, since the first time I've seen La La Land, I though this was a huge movie. Then it comes the final scene that turns it into a masterpiece! After these many years, the more I watch it (and the more I watch videos like yours) the more I find out tons of details that make me realize how great this film is. Man I love Chazelle and I can't wait to watch Babylon too (it is not released yet in my country, I have to wait for a couple of weeks).
Love, love this movie and the score - and your interpretation, I completely agree with it. Being over 60, I really wanted Mia's last dream to be the actual end. My daughters, over 25, thought the end was perfect. So there you have it - generational differences - that is life. Thanks for this analysis - very thought provoking.
I would argue that Mia’s final dream sequence, where she gets her career AND gets to be with Sebastian, was at the cost of Sebastian’s dream. We didn’t get to see his dream fulfilled in the final song and dance. Showing that, although they needed each other to achieve such dreams, they also could not have continued together if they wanted to make their dreams a reality. Therein lies the beauty of this film, the cost of dreams is serious sacrifice.
Musical numbers connote dreams. I couldn’t help but recall Dancer in the Dark, wherein Selma’s life (both the mundane and harrowing moments) turn into scenes from a musical
Fantastic. This film delighted me in ways I wasn't expecting. It has a great deal to say about the meaning of real love, creative ambition and dreams. You've done a wonderful job of unpacking it. Thank you.
Found your channel bc of your top comment on The Nerdwriter's "There Will Be Blood" video. I am pretty sure your review was not some sort of endorsement to get ppl to watch La La Land but now, I want to see La La Land; and I hate musicals normally!
Awesome! The intention of these videos isn't to try and shed some light on aspects of the movie that may go unnoticed after just one viewing. I can assure you Summit didn't hire me for promotion or anything!
Doesn’t matter how many times I watch this movie, it is perfect every time. Trying not to overdo it though because I watched Banshees of Inisherin 9x & I could barely finish it the 9th time. But I love the scenery, score, & characters so much in that movie. It’s different when watching it with someone who is watching it for the first time for some reason (in a good way).
Just found this video after rewatching the movie for like the 5th time and I wish I found this sooner. I couldn't agree more with everything you said. I've never seen a movie with an ending that I love and hated so much at the same time.
Great vid my dude. Found you in the comments section of a kaptainkristian video and I gotta say your channel looks pretty promising. Keep up the good work!
I dont think that their dreams were hollow. We get an entire song sequence where Mia and Sebastian talk about how they are NOT right for each other. I dont think they were ever meant to be together forever. They needed to be together just long enough to set each other on their way to success. Mia has a family now (you'll notice that her husband looks very similar to the man she was dating before Sebastian) and she seems happy. I dont know about Sebastian but he seemed to be happy with his club too
Something I tough about but I don't see anybody saying it... In the final sequence Mia dreams about how the relationship could have been if Sebastian had given up on his dream to help her, but she doesn't give up on anything.
No, both sebastian and mia doesn't give up on anything. In the beginning, sebastian joins keith's club, even though he doesn't like their music. It's contradictory to what he always say to mia, which is keep do what you like/passionate about and give a damn to other's people opinion. In the end, sebastian realize that he's wrong.
Brilliant review for one of my all time favourite movies, you explained la la land expertly, I'm thinking of doing a explained review for this on my movie Instagram account
Wow... I think I may have to rewatch this movie now. What beautiful storytelling. Your video shows that I let a lot of things go over my head... I'm kind of ashamed of myself haha
Thank you! I'm a big fan of Lynch's work, I talked about Eraserhead, but am yet to cover Mulholland (which is my favorite) but would love to sometime soon!
Something I noticed is that when they are in stress and compicated situation its always a close up. When they are dreaming or talking about it or something close to that its now Medium Shot or Wide Angle.
Great analysis! I wasn't a big fan of the movie, but I do appreciate and understand Chazelle's intentions better now that I've seen this video! Thanks and keep up the good work :)
I don't know you guys noticed it or not... But when they were on the highway at the starting from the mia perspective you will see "she shows his middle finger to seb" But if you see this from sebs perspective you will see "she shown his index finger" Maybe because sebs think that "mia will never hurt him in any way possible" but it's not true.
fantastic video mate! I think I disagree with you about how the two arnt totally dedicating themselves on following their dreams. I thought it actually reflected the harsh reality of Hollywood.
so since the wishes cannot be in reality, that’s why Mia’s final dream is all filmed on a sound stage, since it is not attainable it is not at all grounded in reality, while the ambitions while still dreams are not on sound stages because they are attainable
The endings to both Whiplash and La La Land can be acutely summarized with: "You got what you wanted, but you lost what you had."
"Their dreams may have become a reality, but their dreams entered the world of reality" well put!
I guess it's quite off topic but do anyone know a good website to stream new movies online?
@Jaime Imran Flixportal
@Seth Tomas Thanks, signed up and it seems like a nice service :D Appreciate it !!
@Jaime Imran You are welcome :)
wow. life is harsh
The opening song also foreshadows how their relationship will end.
The music does a great job foreshadowing everything!
Jack's Movie Reviews exactly! Worth a watch just to listen to music haha.
The song "Someone In The Crowd" performed by Mia and her roommates also foreshadows that someone in the crowd of her play will make Mia's dream come true
Victor Flores totally true but i always thought that someone in the crowd referred directly to sebastian, who was the someone she had a chance encounter with that motivated her to make her own show to begin with... my favorite connection to this is when she runs to the movie theater and is literally looking for his face in the crowd 🤯😁
@@JacksMovieReviews yes, ie Casablanca is mentioned early on, then at the end the lovers can't be together.
Chazelle has a very similar message in Whiplash, too. Something like how far are you willing to go to pursue your dreams? I absolutely loved La La Land, but the ending is both incredible and it kills me. Very nice analysis, especially liked the split screen part where Mia and Sebastian both aren't able to go to each other.
Thank you!
That's funny I always taught the last scene was Sebastian's dream and not Mia. Because it was seb's actions that was change in the dream: saying no the the band offer, Going to Mia 's show etc. Plus I feel he was the one mostly responsible for them to break up.
Yeah I believe it was Seb's dreams too
The last scene was both their wish/dream, but it's true it relied on Seb's choice. If he was to go with Mia, he never would've made his dream come true.
Mia has to say no to seb. Seb loves Mia. He’d give it up for her. She has to say no
I think it's both their dream which is live happily forever as a couple.
@@m.webster1261 you're right. She actually has a choice to stay in LA and wait until Sebastian has enough money to open a jazz club but it means she have to bury her dream to be an actress. So yes, she has to say no to Seb.
I'm not sold on the pessimism! I was really taken aback at how little of an effect the final scene had on Mia... and that made me realize that she achieved her dream. Basically the entirety of that sequence was a life the movie show's she already has (and much more). And she just walks away, accepting and proud of her choices. I thought that was such a mature decision you wouldn't expect from a film like this-- that a relationship may enter your life that motivates you to the next step of your dream, but that the relationship doesn't work out as some kind of destiny love BS. I thought that was so realistic.
Senyuno exactly. I never saw the ending as pessimistic. It is full of wonder and shows how even though mia and sebastian are not together now, they will always remember each other in a positive light and still move on with their lives .
@@juliaraele9166 It's a movie that favours careers and independence over love and commitment. It basically says: "It is better to have a great job and an average love/family life instead of a bad job with a great love/family life". It just reflects todays zeitgeist. But it is very well made, i'll admit that.
@@JugglernautNr9 except Mia HAS love in her life, and a family with Greg who is treated like a square through the entire movie. She walked away from him without explanation, I guess because Greg's brother's life of traveling the world wasn't as exciting as the prospect of being with Sebastian for a while. Ultimately they (Seb/Mia) didn't make it work because they didn't work on it.
@@JugglernautNr9 Not really cause Mia seems to be in a very happy relationship. It's just we aren't attached to him cause we just watched Seb and Mia fall in love for 2 hours but everything about Mia's life seems happy. It's not like it comes off like she's faking it or anything. Everything she imagines having with Seb she already has with her husband. There are even reverse mirror images with Mia having a son with Seb and a daughter with her husband. Mia and Seb's relationship was going downhill cause their ambitions were driving them apart so they chose to end things on a good note before they resented each other. Sometimes being so similar to someone is great for a season but in the long run having such similar goals would cause one person to eventually have to compromise & end up resenting the other. They weren't meant to marry someone on their same trajectory. The ending is more realistic than pessimistic imo. It isn't saying you can't have a great job and a great love life, it's saying everything can't be perfect like in the movies. In real life everything has it's season and must eventually pass, even their love for each other. If Mia favored independence over love she wouldn't be a happy wife & mother and we just don't know if Seb found someone else.
@@patr1ckk3ll3y this was put really well and made me see the ending in a whole different light
Im surprised that you didnt mention the use of colour to set the mood and feelings of the characters, like when theres green they are jealous or when theres blue they are melancholic and regretful.
In full honesty, I've seen probably close to 10 articles discussing that very same thing, I didn't feel like I could add much to the conversation...
Well thats fair, you wanted to add your relevant 5 cents not just repeat what others said.
Jack's Movie Reviews
aaah, and that's why I love you and subscribed. Please do keep it up.
Viddie ol my good friend bollocks
"this film tells us that there are two types of dreams: ambitions and wishes" best way to describe this movie!
I think a sub-theme in this movie is irreparability. Decisions have consequences, and there are points of no return in ones life that one cannot alter no matter what. I think that's also what makes the ending so powerful.
and people say the opening dance sequence is pointless :(
Each of the song/dance sequences add something to the film!
I think Damien approached songs in this film in same way Garth Evans use Action set piece in Raid 2
This movie also is brilliant at honestly showcasing choice. Sometimes it's easy, sometimes it's hard. Are choices are good or bad. But they are ours. The choices we make are what make us individuals, it's how we know we're alive.
This was actually supposed to be an analysis on moonlight
Olivia Petersen
Moonlight is boring and is a movie about absolutely nothing. Only reason it got any recognition this awards season is because of the times we're in these days. (#oscarssowhite) remember?
Moonlight is not about nothing. It's a character study film. It's about following a man throughout his life and seeing how the experiences and struggles he endures shape him as a person, and it ends with him finally able to find the emotional catharsis he's always needed, while being able to accept himself for who he is. I'm sorry if you thought it was boring, but the idea that it's about nothing and that it shouldn't have gotten any recognition is completely false. It's a technically excellent film with a great script, great cinematography and great score. Both La La Land and Moonlight are very, very good films and there is no need to bring unnecessarily harsh and biased opinions on the latter into what was clearly a joke comment.
Dominic Decoco 'about nothing' okay, that is completely false. it's a slow moving film, yes, but it's an incredibly intimate and in-depth character study surrounding a topic (black gay men in poor communities) not widely explored in cinema, as well as being beautifully shot and realised.
Jane Doe
Only reason it won was because of the times we're in.
2005. Brokeback mountain. Movie about two gay cowboys. Everyone thought it should win... but the TRASH Socal movie (Crash) won instead. I guarantee if the years 2017 and 2005 were switched.. La La Land would have won over Moonlight. And Brokeback mountain would have won over Crash.
It's sad. Yes indeed it's sad.
moonlight is the first of its kind whilst engaging on subject material that very few movies dare to touch (that's why the budget was so tiny: $1.5million), it deserves recognition for that.
there's nothing wrong with a movie that commented on or reflected society winning an award, after all, many people can relate to the issues moonlight brought up, as i did, and many people also. when both movies, la la land and moonlight, stand as well-made, well-acted, well-shot films in their own right, the oscar voters are left with guaging how much the movie affected them. moonlight happened to edge out over la la land. you can't help that.
'it's sad' - is it though? brokeback mountain won three academy awards, la la land seven. not exactly something to cry about.
I personally took that ending as, the dream was the ideal situation and how nice it would have been but that knowing smile at the end confirms what you said, their relationship got them where they wanted to go even if it meant that they didn't end up together, they appreciate each other and what they had was important and they are grateful to each other for the time they spent together.
On a separate note, i was left in awe of this and i think i audibly said wow when I saw it and an older lady a few seats down from me came in with a "well that was two hours of nonsense." and I wanted to reply "You just dont get it!" xD
The ending was beautiful. That was what made this my favorite romance ever because it’s the only healthy way to view your ex-partners. Someone that was exactly what you needed at the time that helped you on your journey to get to your destination. It doesn’t have to end in resentment & hate. I am grateful for all my ex-partners because they kept me going & taught me my strengths, weaknesses, compatibilities, priorities. I have nothing but love for all of them, even the ones that hurt. It all led to who I am today & helped me find the perfect wife I am happily married to today. I wish more people saw relationships this way. It’s great for the heart.
I didn't think the ending was pessimistic. Realistic, absolutely, but not pessimistic. What makes me think this is the very, very last scene. Before she leaves, they lock eyes one final moment, but they smile. There is a quiet thanks shared between them, harkening back to the moment they break up.
Idk how he missed that. That was what made this my favorite romance ever because it’s the only healthy way to view your ex-partners. Someone that was exactly what you needed at the time that helped you on your journey to get to your destination. It doesn’t have to end in resentment & hate. I am grateful for all my ex-partners because they kept me going & taught me my strengths, weaknesses, compatibilities, priorities. I have nothing but love for all of them, even the ones that hurt. It all led to who I am today & helped me find the perfect wife I am happily married to today. I wish more people saw relationships this way. It’s great for the heart.
Fantastic attention to the clothing I hadn't thought of that myself! The use of colour and camera movement in the film is beautiful in this film. So happy to see you cover this one and have an understanding of its major theme: chasing one's dream.
Naturally, as a filmmaker myself, I relate heavily to the film as do many of my filmmaking friends. Hope to do a video covering this film soon- perhaps about how the film generated a level of controversy (just look up articles by The Guardian a British newspaper)
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed!
I'd love to see that video, I haven't done much research into the story behind the movie (controversy) but I think that a great video objectively looking at it from the perspective of a fan could be awesome!
Yeah, because it bothered me to hear someone attack Damien Chazelle to the point of calling him a misogynist. Totally uncalled for. And also its a film that some say there was too much hype about, so it'd be good to revisit it now with the DVD release and months later to see how it lives up to that. Will do after a third viewing.
Yes La La Land one my favorite films from 2016, if not all time (definitely my top musical joining the sound of music), just love it. Jack mate thanks for making a video on it, always great to watch each new one.
It's definitely one of my favorite musicals, and I'm glad I could discuss it here!
I interpreted the ending as Sebastian giving her a send off through music, almost as a "thank you" gift through his music that they now both understand is meaningful.
Also have you seen the movie The Umbrellas of Cherbourg? If you haven't, please watch it soon, it is certainly an amazing film.
I definitely think the end is them accepting that they're each going their own way!
one of my favorite movies... love how it combines dreams and reality into a beautiful, heartbreaking, and, real story.
Mine too. Only thing I would change is the smoke alarm & honking.
What can I say... Awesome as always! Wonderful analysis that goes so much deeper than the surface level (on which this movie also works perfectly). Needless to say: the cinematography (choreography, music, set design.... you name it) are all beyond outstanding. Love the fact that Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling are actually singing live. Hate to say it, but I haven't seen the movie yet, but from what I already watched: the performances are brilliant. Damien Chazelle definitely brings out the very best in his fine cast. I knew that Stone and Gosling are very good, but not THAT good! Brilliant on all levels. Will watch the entire movie ASAP. Thanks again for a very insightful movie dissection!
Much appreciated! I'm glad you enjoyed!
I loved the ending as it was supposed to break away from most movie tropes of a happily ever after. Damian was confident that the audience would be mature enough to understand the reality of the ending because Seb and Mia both acknowledged their fulfillment of careers, despite the sacrifice of a seemingly great relationship. Someone comes into our lives and encourages us to pursue our aspirations but in some cases it may require a great sacrifice. I thought it was great ending because it was realistic.
Sorry Moonlight, but La La Land is the best movie of 2016.
It's really tough to compare, they're both great movies and I love both for different reasons, but I don't think one is objectively better than the other. As of now, they're both in my top 5 from 2016.
Jack's Movie Reviews If I may ask, what's your top 5 favorite movies of 2016?
agree
im late to the party but moonlight had more than one black talking character... la la land had kieth... in a film about jazz... a music genre that originated from black racial struggle for equality.
if you think deeply about it, it is contemporary jazz that is now dominated by the White community ^^@@willcarr3622
To add into the idea of their relationship being incomplete, notice how when the musical montage ends in sebs we see Mia and Sebastian theme literally not being complete as the final note is unplayed, further emphasizing the idea of their relationship never being complete and left open to wonder and play in theirs and the audiences head.
Jack, I am blown away by your content. I think La La Land is a truly deep, beautiful, and heart-wrenching film and I think your analysis perfectly captures what makes it so brilliant and thought-provoking. I think the movie itself has been on the tail-end of some completely undeserved backlash. I've seen so many people call it overrated, and while I'm not opposed to contrary opinions, I think most of its critics are either missing the point or getting caught up in the "racial" Oscars debate and letting it influence their opinion. What makes the film so special to me is just how well it contrasts reality and fantasy. The struggles of their relationship is for me what really sets the film apart, and I love how it explores the concept of chasing your dream vs maintaining your reality. As lavish and superficial as the dreams may be, the reality is authentic and hard-hitting. I don't know if it was your narration or the clips from the movie, but jeez, just watching this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you! Keep up the amazing work!
Thank you! That really means a lot and I'm glad you enjoyed! It can be easy to get caught up in critical backlash, but honestly I've been trying to ignore what others say about movies, and just focus on my thoughts!
Luckily I watched this in 2022 so I was not affected by any of the outside influences that surrounded the movie at the time it was released. Many times the hype surrounding the movie makes it feel overrated no matter what. I actually watched this HATING musicals so I had very low expectations even though I knew it had 6 Oscars. And this is now in my top 5 favorite movies of all time. Mainly because of how the movie ended. It represents how I view all my ex-relationships. Not with hate & resentment, but with appreciation & gratitude.
Came over from Nerdwriter, and I'm glad I did. Your insight and understanding was astounding. Bravo!
Thank you!
Every video from this brilliant channel is so inspiring and beautiful! Thank you, Jack!
just like the movie, I cant even get through this without tearing up
This was really well articulated Jack! Those were some of the exact feelings and thoughts I had when I saw it. Thanks for putting it into words. :)
Amazing video man. My favorite movie of last year and one of my favorite movies ever
Thanks Jared! I loved it, it's definitely up there in my favorites from last year!
When I first saw this movie I wasn't very impressed I liked it, but I thought it was very overrated. Thank you for making me realize the brilliance of this film!
I'm glad I could shed some light on why I loved it so much!
This movie just won't stop making me cry
I literally stumbled on your videos an hour ago, from the Breaking Bad video. Absolutely loving it. I am certainly going to follow you from now. Keep up the good work!
Thank you! I'm glad you've been enjoying!
Excellent analysis. I saw it for the third time the other day, and one can notice something new every time.
Thank you!
You accurately described the movie better than any video thus far
I just saw this pop up on my feed. This is the best analysis I’ve seen of this of this movie so far! I interpreted the end differently. I completely agree with you up to the flashback dream. I don’t think it was juxtaposing harsh reality to dreams, but dreaming what could’ve been once they both finally started living their dream. The movie shows you can’t have everything. The whole movie they were looking forward, then they looked back, and I believe the final shot is them, for the first time in the movie, accepting where they are (them smiling and nodding to each other) and it being a good place.
I think even the music in the final shot tells the same story. The music is a melody of all that happened before, but it ends on an off note, left hanging as she walks towards the exit. Then they both look at each other, nod and smile and the music crescendos and ends on the correct, uplifting notes.
Wow. I'm impressed. This was a great look at the film and I learned some things I didn't know, including the significance of the link between Mia being late to the cinema/Sebastian missing the show. Thanks for a great video!
Man you moved me as have done this piece of dream, this masterpiece of existence. wow
I adore Emma stone anyway but nonetheless this film was both happy sad and darn right melancholy .. I loved the music as well as star...yeah.. I know there was some guy in it somewhere OK.. but it's Emma, OK!! ;)
She really was something special in the movie!
No Ryan gosling was superior
First time watching your videos, really appreciate how you explained everything so concisely. Would watch more!
I appreciate it! I hope you enjoy the others!
La La Land is pure art. It is beautifully unforgettable and a classic already
This channel is way underrated. Great video yet again.
If they're married the'd end up like Marriage Story (aka the harsh reality) 😂 When I watched Marriage Story, I immediately reminded of La La Land. I feel it's like an alternate ending of La La Land, with almost the same premise (dream/career vs relationship), the difference is one person haven't fullfilled her dream and they're already married.
I am not a fan of musical at all but, since the first time I've seen La La Land, I though this was a huge movie.
Then it comes the final scene that turns it into a masterpiece!
After these many years, the more I watch it (and the more I watch videos like yours) the more I find out tons of details that make me realize how great this film is.
Man I love Chazelle and I can't wait to watch Babylon too (it is not released yet in my country, I have to wait for a couple of weeks).
I am a person who was not amused by La La Land the slightest.
But this helped me to understand what the fuss is all about! Thank you, really, so much!
Thank YOU for watching!
Excellent review brother, per usual.
Much appreciated, I'm glad you enjoyed!
Love, love this movie and the score - and your interpretation, I completely agree with it. Being over 60, I really wanted Mia's last dream to be the actual end. My daughters, over 25, thought the end was perfect. So there you have it - generational differences - that is life. Thanks for this analysis - very thought provoking.
I would argue that Mia’s final dream sequence, where she gets her career AND gets to be with Sebastian, was at the cost of Sebastian’s dream. We didn’t get to see his dream fulfilled in the final song and dance. Showing that, although they needed each other to achieve such dreams, they also could not have continued together if they wanted to make their dreams a reality. Therein lies the beauty of this film, the cost of dreams is serious sacrifice.
Watched the movie this summer in a projection outside. Loved it!!!
That sounds like a ton of fun!
yes it was ! and the city paid for it!
Musical numbers connote dreams. I couldn’t help but recall Dancer in the Dark, wherein Selma’s life (both the mundane and harrowing moments) turn into scenes from a musical
Fantastic. This film delighted me in ways I wasn't expecting. It has a great deal to say about the meaning of real love, creative ambition and dreams. You've done a wonderful job of unpacking it. Thank you.
Found your channel bc of your top comment on The Nerdwriter's "There Will Be Blood" video. I am pretty sure your review was not some sort of endorsement to get ppl to watch La La Land but now, I want to see La La Land; and I hate musicals normally!
Awesome! The intention of these videos isn't to try and shed some light on aspects of the movie that may go unnoticed after just one viewing. I can assure you Summit didn't hire me for promotion or anything!
Doesn’t matter how many times I watch this movie, it is perfect every time. Trying not to overdo it though because I watched Banshees of Inisherin 9x & I could barely finish it the 9th time. But I love the scenery, score, & characters so much in that movie. It’s different when watching it with someone who is watching it for the first time for some reason (in a good way).
Standing ovation. Great analysis.
Fantastic analysis.
Thank you!
Just found this video after rewatching the movie for like the 5th time and I wish I found this sooner. I couldn't agree more with everything you said. I've never seen a movie with an ending that I love and hated so much at the same time.
Thanks Eric!
Great video man!!
Thank you!
Fantastic analysis, mate! You took my words out of my mouth. 🤙
Mate , you are a genius of film analysis.
Love this analysis! Keep it up.
Thank you!
Great vid my dude. Found you in the comments section of a kaptainkristian video and I gotta say your channel looks pretty promising. Keep up the good work!
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed!
I didn't realise this movie was that intelligent, thanks dude !
Of course! I'm glad you enjoyed!
Maybe I'll check it again.I just want to see brother being fairly respected.
I dont think that their dreams were hollow. We get an entire song sequence where Mia and Sebastian talk about how they are NOT right for each other. I dont think they were ever meant to be together forever. They needed to be together just long enough to set each other on their way to success. Mia has a family now (you'll notice that her husband looks very similar to the man she was dating before Sebastian) and she seems happy. I dont know about Sebastian but he seemed to be happy with his club too
Something I tough about but I don't see anybody saying it... In the final sequence Mia dreams about how the relationship could have been if Sebastian had given up on his dream to help her, but she doesn't give up on anything.
No, both sebastian and mia doesn't give up on anything. In the beginning, sebastian joins keith's club, even though he doesn't like their music. It's contradictory to what he always say to mia, which is keep do what you like/passionate about and give a damn to other's people opinion. In the end, sebastian realize that he's wrong.
Excellent your point of view of this movie.
Now I have to see that movie again, thrice, to notice all these things by myself
this movie is so impressive and beautiful!
I loved the review, thank you for posting this video
Thank you!
Brilliant review for one of my all time favourite movies, you explained la la land expertly, I'm thinking of doing a explained review for this on my movie Instagram account
Thank you! And if you do end up making that review, be sure to leave a link over here, I'm sure some people would love to see it!
Jack's Movie Reviews thanks man, it won't be for a while so I'll link it in your next vid which I'm excited to see what you'll have in store for us!
Wow... I think I may have to rewatch this movie now. What beautiful storytelling.
Your video shows that I let a lot of things go over my head... I'm kind of ashamed of myself haha
Don't be ashamed! If you liked the movie, it did its job! Go back rewatch and enjoy!
Your videos are so AWESOME! Have you considered analysing Mulholland Drive. Would like to hear your thoughts.
Thank you! I'm a big fan of Lynch's work, I talked about Eraserhead, but am yet to cover Mulholland (which is my favorite) but would love to sometime soon!
Something I noticed is that when they are in stress and compicated situation its always a close up. When they are dreaming or talking about it or something close to that its now Medium Shot or Wide Angle.
Subbed! Great first video for me to be introduced to this channel.
Thank you!
Great video as always.
Excellent analysis!
Great video my guy
Great analysis! I wasn't a big fan of the movie, but I do appreciate and understand Chazelle's intentions better now that I've seen this video! Thanks and keep up the good work :)
Thank you!
My favourite movie
Birdman: the dream of reality.
Lalaland: the reality of dream.
Thank you... nicely explained ♥️♥️👌👌
wow man
you are amazing Jack
Fantastic video mate,easily the best movie of 2016..I would love to see you do an analysis of scarface and apocalypse now
Thank you, I love both of those movies!
Incredible video
Good video thx. Great movie, very touching.
Very well done.
I don't know you guys noticed it or not...
But when they were on the highway at the starting from the mia perspective you will see "she shows his middle finger to seb"
But if you see this from sebs perspective you will see "she shown his index finger"
Maybe because sebs think that "mia will never hurt him in any way possible" but it's not true.
Great essay
excellente review mate!
Thanks Alex!
Great video! You rock!
Really enjoyed thanks
I’m so sad again
Amazing video.
Thank you!
Eyoo this is the best movie analysis i Have ever watched
Musicals have always been one of my very least favourite genres, but this one ...
Probably one of my Top 10 favourite movies of all time.
where did you learn to read movies like this and where could we read and understand movies like this?
Beautiful review for a beautiful film :)
Thank you!
fantastic video mate! I think I disagree with you about how the two arnt totally dedicating themselves on following their dreams. I thought it actually reflected the harsh reality of Hollywood.
beautiful
great video! subscribed :)
Awesome! Welcome to the team!
great channel
Thank you!
this is absolutely the best analysis of this movie iv'e watched!
it's exactly how i see it... i love this so much.
so since the wishes cannot be in reality, that’s why Mia’s final dream is all filmed on a sound stage, since it is not attainable it is not at all grounded in reality, while the ambitions while still dreams are not on sound stages because they are attainable